SANTA FE—This evening, the New Mexico Senate unanimously approved House Bill 55, Rep. Tim Lewis’s effort to expand scholarship benefits for the surviving family members of New Mexico police offers and firefighters who have fallen in the line of duty.

HB 55 expands the existing survivors’ scholarship to cover costs related to room, board, books, and supplies as well as tuition. The bill also provides an equal benefit for survivors who attend out-of-state schools.

The benefit is capped at the average cost of attending an in-state institution.

“Expanding this benefit is a small but meaningful way New Mexicans can show their appreciation for the men and women who protect us from harm,” said Rep. Lewis. “I am pleased to have the support of my legislative colleagues on this worthwhile bill, and I hope the governor will sign it soon.”